The Japanese government is set to launch a new system on August 18, 2002 to enable citizens of the United States and Canada to enter Japan with an eVISA. All previous requirements for visa and entry still apply (no individual tourists), but the system is expected to simplify the application and verification process while visa on arrival remains suspended.
Prior to Covid-19 related restrictions and limitations on entry to Japan, some 60+ countries qualified for visa on arrival. The visa exemption program suspension has now lasted for a few years, and many wonder when it will be reinstated.
Japan has been working on eVISA program for quite some time. However; prior to Covid-19, it was planned as a program to faciliate visa application for foreign nationals not eligible for the visa on arrival program. It is possible the Japanese government is taking this opportunity to test the eVISA system with US and Canadian citizens, even though they are not the long term target of the program.
Once enabled, the eVISA system will allow a user to display a “Visa issuance notice” at the airport check-in counter. In order to receive this notice, the user will need to submit the same documents usually required for that visa. This includes copy of passport, facial images, and a “Certificate for Completion of Registration issued by the ERFS”. The “Entrants, Returnees Follow-Up System (ERFS) application by the receiving organization in Japan is what will generate the “Certificate for Completion of Registration”.
While the new Japan eVISA system will streamline the application process for those able to enter under the current entry requirements, it will not expand the eligibility to any new groups. It remains an open question as to when the Japanese government will open to doors for the return of regular non-guided tourism.